St Andrews Sathorn, Year 4 - Jungle Exploration, Camping and Elephant Conservation

Arriving ready for action, the Year 4s from St Andrews Sathorn Campus came to The Howling Gibbon for an action packed 3-days of team building, low ropes, environmental studies, camping, jungle trekking and elephant conservation.

For many these outdoor activities were brand new to the children and designed to bring the students out of their comfort zones and into their growth zones. It was magical to see many of the Year 4s camping for the very first time - something which most of our outdoor staff remember very vividly from their childhoods and a once in a lifetime event! We braced ourselves for cold temperatures overnight with extra blankets and warm clothes, although fortunately the nighttime temperatures were mild and the children were sharing tents with their friends so could share some warmth!

We also collected freshwater invertebrates in the Lam Ta Khong River and analysed the various species to find out the biological water quality index (BWQI). We found lots of interesting invertebrates including dragonfly and mayfly nymphs, snails and water beetles. The BWQI was found to be in the rather clean - clean range which is good news as this suggests that the river ecosystem in Khao Yai National Park is in a healthy state.

We look forward to seeing St Andrews Sathorn, Year 4 next year!

The Howling Gibbon Team